5 Mistakes To Avoid That Can Save You Money When Traveling for Spring Break
Written by
Kerra Bolton
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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As the snow melts and trees begin to bloom, many travelers start thinking about taking a spring break to escape the daily grind. However, hidden airline fees, daily expenses and ground transportation costs can cause the travel budget to spiral out of control.
Here are five mistakes to avoid that can save you money when traveling for spring break.
Procrastinating on Booking Flights
Some travelers wait until the last minute because they hope to get a lower price and end up paying double.
“Spring break is one of the busiest travel seasons, and the longer you wait, the extra you’ll pay,” said Kevin Connor, the CEO of Modern SBC, a strategic branding and communications firm. “Airlines and accommodations love last-minute bookers due to the fact they can charge ridiculous fees and people will pay because they don’t have a choice.”
Sebastian Garrido, a digital marketing manager at Vibe Adventures, said spring break travelers should book their flights in advance.
“It saves you money and time,” Garrido said. “Compare flights between airlines and different platforms. Choose the one with the most baggage benefits.”
Paying Unnecessary Travel Fees
It’s exciting to get an airline deal only to realize that there are extra fees for choosing a seat and checking bags.
“Pack light and use a carry-on to avoid extra baggage fees,” Connor said. “Bring your personal snacks and an empty water bottle to refill after security. Examine the fine print. Some airlines charge for everything.”
Garrido said travelers should spend money on essentials.
“Many travelers spend money on alcohol and snacks that normally should be included in some deals,” he added.
Ignoring Ground Transportation Costs
One of the biggest challenges some spring break travelers face is paying for transportation once they arrive at their destination.
“Ubers in travel hotspots may be insanely overpriced, particularly during high-traffic hours,” Connor said.
Instead, Connor recommended that travelers research public transportation, such as transit passes, evaluate car rental options, and download rideshare apps to save money.
Garrido said travelers should be cautious when arranging ground transportation in certain destinations during spring break.
“Some places will try to take advantage and take more money from you, knowing you are a tourist,” said Garrido, who works from Mexico City, “For example, cab drivers in Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen.”
Not Setting a Daily Budget
Decide how much you can comfortably spend before you leave, said Jeff Powell, creator and owner of the travel blogs Smoky Mountain Ventures and National Park Ventures.
“Include travel costs (flights, gas, etc.), lodging costs, dining costs, the cost of the attractions you want to visit, souvenirs, etc.,” Powell said. “It’s also a good idea to add about 10% of the total to cover any unexpected expenses.
“You may have to prioritize your desires and make some tough choices about what you can and cannot afford. I know no one likes to think about a budget when planning a vacation. But no one likes to get a big credit card bill when they get home, either.”
During spring break, Connor said travelers should keep track of their daily spending by using an app like Mint or YNAB or keeping physical cash on them.
Falling for Tourist Traps
Many popular destinations have “must-see” attractions. However, those tourist hotspots are also in areas with expensive restaurants, activities, and accommodations because travelers are paying for the location as much as the experience.
“Doing research before traveling can save you money,” said Melissa Cid, a consumer savings expert at MySavings.com. “Before we travel, I make a list of restaurants that interest us, and I check their websites for any email newsletters or a rewards program that offers free food just for signing up.
“It’s been a great way to score free appetizers, desserts, and even entrees if they offer a special promotion just for signing up. I also check their social media for any happy hour or special promotions that we can take advantage of. Also, we often find a lot of value in choosing small ‘mom and pop’ restaurants over bigger, trendy, Instagram-popular spots.”
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